How Bucks could benefit from Heathrow expansion

Neil Shefferd

Members of a business group from Bucks have been learning about the opportunities that could arise if there is an expansion at Heathrow Airport.

The Buckinghamshire Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership (BTVLEP) board learned how increased flight capacity could benefit the economy through access to new markets, supporting reduced flight costs and providing employment and skills opportunities for communities around the airport site.

Nigel Milton, director of external affairs at Heathrow Airport also explained that the development in aeroplane technology would enable planes to fly higher for longer, reduce emission levels and that the increased capacity would allow greater flexibility in flying times than were currently possible.

The proposed expansion, which centres around plans for a new runway to the north-west of the airport would double the number of apprenticeship opportunities to 10,000 and provide up to 40,000 local jobs.

Alex Pratt, chairman of BTVLEP said: “The development of air capacity around London is of paramount importance to the economy of the UK and in particular to businesses in areas such as Buckinghamshire that benefit through close access to the main international hubs.

“BTVLEP are keen to ensure that a final decision on the proposals is made by the end of the year and will be pressing Government to ensure that there is no slippage on a final decision.

“It will be important to work to minimise potential downsides as well as to maximise the upside potential.

“We want to ensure that our businesses and communities are well informed about any opportunities emerging through this process in what will be one of the biggest infrastructure projects of the next decade.”

There will be a further opportunity for businesses to hear about the development proposals at The Heathrow Business Summit at the Radisson Hotel, Heathrow on November 10.